How to Change Bathtub Handles

Locate and remove the screws that hold the bathtub handles onto the faucet.

Part of remodeling a bathroom involves changing out the old hardware in favor of new hardware that matches the bathroom decor. Removing the water control handles from the bathtub does not require any plumbing knowledge or skills. You will need to buy a handle puller if the handles do not easily come off the faucet assembly. You can find a puller at your local plumbing supply store and use it over and over when repairing leaky faucets.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Allen wrench
• Handle puller

Instructions

1. Shut off the flow of water to the bathtub faucet by closing the main water valve in the house. Turn on both the hot and cold water in the tub faucet to ensure the water is completely turned off.

2. Pry out the plastic caps in the middle of the faucet handles, revealing the set screws below. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the set screws.

3. Look for a small hole near the base of the handle, if the handles do not have plastic caps. Insert an Allen wrench into the hole and twist counterclockwise to remove the set screw.

4. Pull the handles straight off the faucet assembly. If the handles do not come off easily, clamp a handle puller tool to the back edge of each handle, then turn the center post on the tool clockwise until the handle comes off the faucet.

5. Slide the new handles onto the faucet and secure the set screws so the handles sit firmly on the faucet. Turn the house's main water valve back on to restore water to the bathtub.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Repair a Leaking Tub Faucet